Courses

Choosing a course is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make! View our courses and see what our students and lecturers have to say about the courses you are interested in at the links below.

About NUI Galway

Since 1845, NUI Galway has been sharing the highest quality teaching and research with Ireland and the world. Find out what makes our University so special – from our distinguished history to the latest news and campus developments.

Course Overview

The Master of Education (MEd) is a newly-designed, two-year, part-time, modular postgraduate programme. With participants from a wide range of educational contexts and disciplines, the MEd offers a dynamic learning environment that aims to fostercollaborative learning. Given the nature of the programme, there is a strong emphasis on developing the capacity for self-directed learning and research, with appropriate support from academic staff and a personal supervisor. Specifically, the programme aims to provide participants with the opportunity to a) re-engage with theory, research and practice in elements of the Educational Sciences and Professional Studies, and to b) design and conduct a piece of educational research to a high professional standard.

Please note GYA47 Master of Education is a separate programme to the Initial Teacher Education programme, the Professional Master of Education (PEG01). A teaching qualification, or equivalent, is one of the entry requirements to GYA47 Master of Education.

Applications and Selections

Applications are made online via The Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC). Relevant PAC application code(s) above. Selection criteria is based on the applicant's prior academic achievement on the qualifying award(s) and the standard of the personal statement.

Who Teaches this Course

All members of academic staff in the School of Education contribute to the programme. Further information is available here.

Requirements and Assessment

Each of the modules is assessed through specific assignments, which may include academic papers, oral presentations, and/or other exercises as deemed appropriate by the relevant lecturers. A minor thesis of 20,000–25,000 words is also completed in year two.

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

Primary degree, and

Teaching qualification, or equivalent.

Honours standard in at least one of the above.

Generally, two to three years professional experience is required.

Additional Requirements

Duration

2 years, part-time

Next start date

September 2017

A Level Grades ()

Average intake

20

Closing Date

Closing date extended to: 21st July, 2017

Next start date

September 2017

NFQ level

Mode of study

Taught

ECTS weighting

120

Award

CAO

PAC code

GYA47

Course Outline

The programme combines a taught element with research in the field of education. It is comprised of two components, totalling 60 ECTS credits. Classes take place on Wednesdays during term from 5–9pm, along with sessions during school mid-term breaks and potentially during other holidays.

In Year One, students complete six modules, which include elements of the Educational Sciences and Professional Studies. In Year Two, the taught research methodology modules are specifically designed to equip participants with the necessary research skills to enable students to complete a minor research thesis of 20,000–25,000 words. Teaching and learning strategies include lectures, workshops, tutorials and seminars.

Why Choose This Course?

Career Opportunities

Graduates have found employment in areas such as education leadership and management, education support services, and curriculum development bodies. The programme also facilitates general career advancement. Students typically report that their own view of professional practice has been greatly enriched by practitioner research. Further research opportunities exist at PhD level.

Who’s Suited to This Course

Learning Outcomes

Work Placement

Study Abroad

Related Student Organisations

Course Fees

Fees: EU

€4,495 p.a. 2017/18

Fees: Tuition

€4,271 p.a. 2017/18

Fees: Student levy

€224 p.a. 2017/18

Fees: Non EU

€13,250 p.a. 2017/18

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €2,000 towards your tuition. You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee. An F5 grant is where SUSI will pay TUITION up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €224.